As she spoke he made his way around to the front of the bench and smiled down at her. She realised that her heart was racing slightly now. He was a lot better looking than she had imagined him! Taller, thinner, younger, better dressed... better in every imaginable way! Now she began to worry that he wouldn't like her... Stop it, she commanded herself. This is ridiculous.
"Sam Levin" he introduced himself, although of course she already knew his name, "May I join you?"
"Oh yes! Of course. Please do."
Now I'm sounding too keen, she said to herself. Oh, why can't I just relax and be natural?
For a brief moment, neither of them spoke. They were looking at each other eagerly, with barely concealed fascination, but trying to do it tastefully, without seeming to stare.
"Am I... as you expected?" he asked with a broad smile.
She was flustered by the question. If she told the truth it would sound too forward... "Yes," she replied hesitantly, "pretty much. What about me?"
"Better in every way. Younger, more attractive, more vivacious... a bit daunting, to be honest. You're better than I deserve."
She laughed. "Oh, please! We've only just met... you're embarrassing me!"
"Sorry. I take it back. You're fat and ugly.